Early Modern Crime C16th/C17th

What was a significant change in crime during the 16th and 17th centuries in Britain?

• Decrease in organized crime

• Increase in moral crimes

• Abolishment of witchcraft laws

• Introduction of modern policing

What was the main reason for the rise in vagrancy during the 16th and 17th centuries?

• Increase in food prices and fall in wages

• Better weather conditions

• Introduction of new laws

• Decrease in population

What did pamphlets during this period often warn people about?

• New farming techniques

• Dangerous gangs of vagrants

• Upcoming festivals

• Changes in government

What was the Puritan belief about idleness?

• It was a virtue

• It was wrong and people should work hard

• It was a sign of intelligence

• It was acceptable on Sundays

Which of the following was banned by Puritans in the 1640s and 1650s?

• Owning pets

• Sports and games on Sundays

• Reading books

• Traveling abroad

What was the punishment for adultery under Puritan laws?

• Death

• Community service

• Fines

• Imprisonment

What was believed to give witches their power?

• Ancient books

• Familiars

• Magic wands

• Special herbs

When was the first law making witchcraft a crime passed?

• 1600

• 1800

• 1542

• 1700

What pattern did historians notice about witchcraft trials?

• They decreased during times of war

• They were only conducted by men

• They increased during times of hardship and poverty

• They were more common in urban areas

By the early 18th century, what led to the decline in witchcraft trials?

• New farming techniques

• Increase in population

• Scientific ideas and explanations

• Better weather conditions